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Match Light Fire Pit Kits

Easy to install, low maintenance, budget friendly

Match Light Kits

Easy to Install, easy on the budget, low maintanence

Often referred to as Match Lit Kits, these are the simplest of the four main fire pit ignition systems.

To operate, you open the gas valve manually using the gas valve key or shut-off valve and light the burner with a long match or taper. On most models, the flame height adjustment can also performed via the gas valve.

All the leading manufacturers have a range of match-lit kits available in standard configurations. Various shapes, including square, round, linear, and rectangular come in different styles such as drop-in, flat, or lipless.

Due to their simplicity, Match Light Kits are ideal for DIY backyard projects; they are quick and easy to install, simple to operate and maintain and create a great-looking fire pit.

Many can easily be upgraded to a more advanced ignition system later if required.

Basic Installation Requirements & Info

We strongly recommend reviewing the manufacturer’s installation manual to understand the specific requirements for clearances, ventilation, and other details before constructing the structure.

  • Ventilation – Proper through-ventilation is essential for all gas fire pits. Typically, fire features up to 200,000 BTUs require a minimum of 18 square inches of venting on two opposing sides. Higher BTU ratings may necessitate larger or additional vents. Always consult the manufacturer’s guidelines for specific venting requirements.
  • Drainage – Sufficient drainage is equally important to keep components dry and ensure long-lasting performance.
  • Access – When a 20 lb propane tank is the source of fuel, the fire pit design should include a door for easy access.

Drop-In Pans offer the easiest installation and require the simplest fire pit design. The pan drops into an opening in the top surface of the structure and is supported by its lip or flange which frames the burn area.

GAS FIRE PIT - THE BASICS USING A DROP-IN PAN
Drop-In Pan with Gas Connections and Gas Key Valve

Flat and Lipless Pans require a built-in support lower than the top surface of the structure. Once installed with fire media no part of the pan is visible.  

GAS FIRE PIT - THE BASICS USING A FLAT PAN
Flat Pan with Gas Connections and Gas Key Valve

Match Light Kits – What’s Included?

The configuration changes from brand to brand; however, generally speaking, Kits consist of a pan and burner with gas connections featuring gas lines and either a gas shut-off valve or a key valve.

Propane versions will also include an air mixer valve if necessary and a regulator if the model is designed to be fuelled by a 20lb propane gas bottle.

Quick Comparison of Brands

AFG Match Lit Gas Connections

American Fire Products’ Match Light Kits are very basic and supplied with a flexible gas hose and a shut-off valve for use with Natural Gas. The Propane option is for use with a small LP tank and comes with a regulator.

HPC Match Lit Gas Key Valve and Bracket
Gas Key Valve with mounting bracket

HPC Fire CSA Certified Match Lit Kits come ready-assembled with 36″ Gas Flex Line, Gas Key Valve, Chrome Key, and Valve Mounting Bracket. Only the Small LP tank option includes connections from the valve to the gas feed. To comply with CSA requirements, they are limited to 65,000 BTUs impacting the size range.

HPC Uncertified Kit Flex Line & Key Valve

HPC Fire uncertified “high-pressure” match-lit kits can be rated up to 400,000 BTUs, offering a much wider range of sizes. This is a “no frills”, simple kit with a gas line that connects the pan to the key valve. Connections to the gas feed are not included.

The Outdoor Plus Flame Sense Match Lit Valve Box & Pilot Assembly

The Outdoor Plus offers the LC Certified Match Lit Flame Sense Kit. It has safety technology that monitors the flame and automatically shuts off the gas if the flame goes out.

Maximizing Potential and Alternatives

To comply with CSA certification requirements, the gas orifice on CSA-certified match-lit kits restricts flow to 65,000 BTU, effectively limiting burner size and the available kit range.

The BTU cap is higher for CSA-certified Spark Ignition or Flame-Sensing kits, so a wider range of sizes is available. The widest range is found in with Electronic Ignition Kits.

Uncertified Kits are capable of surpassing the BTU limits set by CSA certification and remain safe and family-friendly. However, gas type restrictions may apply to specific sizes.

The components are often sold individually, allowing for customization and replacement of specific parts as needed. See Pan & Burners , Gas Connections, and Burners.

Fire Glass and Lava Rock Calculators

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